Types of Salmon: Salmon Varieties Explained

TL;DR: This guide breaks down the main types of salmon, explaining their origins, flavor profiles, and best uses so you can choose the right fillet for any recipe. Readers will learn that there are seven globally recognized salmon species and explore the six most common varieties eaten in the U.S.

• Atlantic Salmon is farmed responsibly and offers a mild, rich, and versatile flavor.
• King (Chinook) Salmon delivers the richest, most luxurious taste thanks to its high fat content.
• Sockeye Salmon is bold and firm, known for its deep red color and strong salmon flavor.
• Coho Salmon provides a balanced, adaptable option with moderate richness.
• Pink and Chum Salmon are leaner, mild-tasting choices ideal for budget-friendly or marinated dishes.

From rich, buttery textures to leaner, more delicate options, each salmon species offers something a little bit unique for your plate and palate. Understanding the different types of salmon can help you pick the perfect fillet. In this blog, we’ll discuss the main types of salmon to eat, their origins, and their flavor profiles to help you make an informed choice.

How Many Types of Salmon Are There?

There are seven main species of salmon commonly recognized. That includes one Atlantic species and six Pacific species. Atlantic Salmon is the only salmon native to the Atlantic Ocean.

There are five U.S. Pacific salmon species, all native to Alaska and the Pacific Northwest:

• Chinook (King) Salmon
• Sockeye (Red) Salmon
• Coho (Silver) Salmon
• Pink (Humpback) Salmon
• Chum (Keta/Dog) Salmon

You could also count Masu (Cherry) Salmon, which is not native to the U.S. We’ll discuss the six species above in the guide below.

Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar)

Most Atlantic salmon available today is responsibly farmed, including premium offerings from regions like Norway. According to NOAA Fisheries, wild Atlantic salmon are protected in U.S. waters. That means commercial harvest is limited. As a result, you can feel confident that the Atlantic salmon found in stores comes from reputable aquaculture sources.

• Flavor & Texture: Mild, rich, buttery, and tender.
• Best Uses: Pan-searing, baking, broiling, grain bowls, and versatile everyday dishes.
• Why Choose It: Consistent flavor, high-fat content, and wide availability make it one of the best types of salmon for home cooks.

King (Chinook) Salmon

King Salmon has a reputation as the most luxurious Pacific salmon thanks to its high fat content and exceptional flavor. It’s harvested in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest under strict sustainability regulations.

• Flavor & Texture: Exceptionally rich, silky, and full-bodied with the highest fat content.
• Best Uses: Grilling, slow-roasting, and celebratory meals where salmon is the star.
• Why Choose It: If you’re wondering what type of salmon is best for flavor and luxury, King salmon tops the list.

Sockeye Salmon

Sockeye is one of the most recognizable types of salmon thanks to its deep, distinctive red flesh. Harvested primarily in Alaska, Sockeye salmon populations are carefully monitored for long-term sustainability.

• Flavor & Texture: Bold, robust, and distinctly “salmon-forward” with a firm texture.
• Best Uses: Grilling, smoked salmon, or recipes that benefit from a strong salmon flavor.
• Why Choose It: Ideal for those who love an assertive, flavorful bite.
  

Coho (Silver) Salmon

Coho Salmon can be considered the “middle ground” among different types of salmon. In general, Coho offers a milder flavor than Sockeye but a firmer bite than Atlantic.

• Flavor & Texture: Mild to moderately rich, with a slightly firm bite.
• Best Uses: Roasting, sautéing, salads, pasta dishes, and weeknight meals.
• Why Choose It: A versatile option that adapts easily to nearly any cooking style.

Pink Salmon

Pink salmon is the most abundant wild Pacific species. That’s why it’s commonly used in canned and value-driven fresh offerings. Pink salmon is harvested primarily in Alaska under sustainable management programs.

• Flavor & Texture: Mild, lean, and softer than other species.
• Best Uses: Salmon burgers, casseroles, patties, and recipes with added sauces or seasonings.
• Why Choose It: Budget-friendly and great for light, quick meals.

Chum Salmon

Often overlooked, Chum salmon has a mild flavor and firm bite. It is also known for producing the salty roe that’s often used in sushi.

• Flavor & Texture: Mild, firm, and less oily than Sockeye or King.
• Best Uses: Marinated dishes, grilling, and preparations that highlight subtle seafood flavor.
• Why Choose It: A solid choice for cooks who want a milder salmon that still holds its structure well when cooked.

Finding the Right Salmon for Every Meal

Each salmon species brings something unique to the table. Knowing the differences makes it easier to pick the right fillet for any dish you’re planning. We recommend starting with the best and experiencing salmon the way it’s meant to taste.

Shop Naked Salmon from North Coast Seafoods.